You don't talk about what your interests are. What do *you* like to do?
Are you into sports? Chess? Academics? A spiritual life?
When we know, or begin to know who we are, we gravitate to those with like interests. Friendships develop naturally.

You seem to be concerned about the characters of others. And you speak about your father being a "coward." That *suggests* that you *may* be a bit judgemental. I do not know, I'm only suggesting that you may want to look at your own behaviors. That is one character trait that will turn others off very quickly. It is not a way to "make friends and influence people" as the saying goes.
(Please note, I could be very very wrong about this suggestion. I am only going by your one post here. You're asking for help, and I'm trying to provide it.)

I do think that the counselor is a good idea too. If you are open and honest with this person, it could do you a world of good.

I know that, for me, I had to learn about who *I* was and what *I* liked. Once that happened, things began to fall into place.

Peace!